Development of New Microwave-Drying and Straightening Technology for Low-Value Curved Timber;Forest Service research note

摘要

A considerable amount of small-diameter, branched, or curved timber is currently left standing, bucked and left on the ground, chipped, or burned after logging or thinning operations. Most North American mills are not equipped to handle this low-value material. In many areas of the western United States, such forest residue does not decompose and becomes susceptible to forest insects or disease, especially if the material is partially damaged or injured during logging. The USDA Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory is conducting a comprehensive research program to add value to biomass derived from small-diameter, branched, and curved timber. This paper describes the development of new microwave-drying and straightening technology.